Education minister aware of academic concerns

The Minister for Higher Education and Skills, Sharon Bird says she's aware universities are unhappy with proposed government funding cuts, but it's necessary for sake of the Gonski reforms.

University professors and associate professors from around the country published an open letter in major newspapers on Wednesday.

It calls on Julia Gillard to reverse plans to cut more than $2-billion from the sector.

Ms Bird says the sector has enjoyed steady funding increases since 2007, so its not unreasonable to now ask for help to fund school education reforms.

"I mean its tough times and we're asking everybody, that's clear, to make a contribution to helping fund the Gonsky education reforms and I understand sectors who have had that request are not happy," she said.

"I'm not going to pretend that I expect them to be thrilled about it".

University of Wollongong Economics Professor Simon Ville signed the letter rejecting proposed funding cuts to the university sector.

Professor Ville says cuts will impact across the board and could result in job losses.

"If people continue then obviously they are faced with large classes, a less satisfying experience, less productive high quality education," he said.

"The majority of the budget of any university, with any school as well, is salaries".